March 16, 2021 4:10 pm A report to analyse the best options for establishing a vet school within the region has been commissioned by Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. It’s the first formal step towards establishing a veterinary school within Northern Ireland, despite the proposal being bandied about for several years. Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots commented: “I have been concerned for some time that Northern Ireland may not attract sufficient veterinary surgeons to meet the needs of the local agri-food industry in the future, and I have been keen that my department continues to explore options for a more secure supply of vets for Northern Ireland on a longer-term basis.